Full-time Job Interview in Japan: Basic Preparations and Notes

Are you gearing up for your first full-time job interview and stepping into the world of career-building in Japan? Well, things are a bit different now due to the declining birthrate in Japan.

In Japan, the job hunting process, known as Shuukatsu, used to follow a strict schedule, but COVID-19 changed everything. Many managers and HR departments have shifted to online recruiting to safeguard job opportunities amidst the chaos. Plus, with the declining birthrate in Japan, there's been a surge in demand for jobs in Japan.

To help you navigate this new landscape, we've put together a comprehensive guide on getting full time jobs in Japan, complete with tips for acing your interviews. Check it out!

Check out this guideline in case you are interested in having an Internship program in Japan.

Noted Points When Entering and Leaving The Room in The Full-time Job Interview in Japan

Behavior Rules During the Full-time Job Interview in Japan

Side notes

• Checking the company information, philosophy in advance.

• Practicing an assigned demo with another person (several times).

• Assuming you are being evaluated all the time by everyone in the building

Everyone matters! Be nice and respectful to everyone you meet at the interview, from the receptionist to the person you ride the elevator with. They might have an opinion on whether you get the job!

• Be careful with the time (discuss belows)

Essential Documents

Often handwritten resumes, or "rirekisho" (履歴書) in Japanese, are a requirement when applying for a job at nearly all Japanese companies

Bring a copy of your well-prepared CV (more than one to back up) with a Japanese standard ID photo attached as well as the Residence Card (在留カード) – Zairyu Kado and/or Passport and basic stationery such as notebook and Pen to memorize key things.

Check out how to write a rirekisho – Japanese Resume with Templates included!

Other than handwritten resume and cover letter, you could bring a printed business card as well. Business cards are still playing a significant role in the Japanese business culture and can leave a positive impression.

"Dress to Impress" - Proper Dress in a Full-time Interview

In Japan, there's a traditional uniform for job interviews! Most new graduates wear the same black suits, and even people switching careers often do this. While things are slowly becoming more relaxed, it's still best to play it safe and dress very formal for interviews.

What to Wear:

Men: Black suit, white shirt, dark tie (always wear a tie!), black shoes and socks.

Women: Black suit (skirt or pants), white shirt, black heels, and skin-tone or black stockings (not too high!).

Looking Professional:

Men should be clean-shaven.

Both men and women should avoid heavy makeup and complicated hairstyles. Some students even dye their hair back to its natural color for interviews!

The key is to look neat and professional to make a good impression.

Be Strategic With Your Timing - Be Early but Not Late!

Here's the rewritten version for the punctuality part of your interview in Japan:

Being On Time in Japan

In Japan, being on time for an interview isn't enough. Aim to be early! Try to arrive at least 30 minutes before your interview. This gives you time to relax, grab coffee (if needed), and enter calmly 10-15 minutes beforehand.

Uh oh, running late?

Things happen! If you're delayed due to trains, weather, or unexpected events, contact the recruiter immediately. Give them enough time to reschedule.

Don't be too early either!

While being early shows respect, arriving more than 15-20 minutes early might disrupt the interviewer's schedule. Aim for that 10-15 minute sweet spot to make a good impression.

Preparing for Your Full-time Job Interview in Japan!

The Guidable team does hope that you found this article as a supportive piece of information, helping you grab the best preparation before the full-time job interview! After all, all of our activities are aiming for a better life for foreigners in Japan!